Quicklime (CaO)
A monoxide of calcium (CaO), is often referred to as burnt lime. It is a white, caustic, alkaline, crystalline solid and manufactured from limestone, which is extracted from quarries and mines. Limestone is usually crushed and fed into lime kilns, where it is burnt at high temperatures and broken down into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide.
Quicklime has a wide range of uses including in the production of iron and steel, paper and pulp, sugar refining, treatment of water, wastewater and flue gases, construction (soil stabilization), agriculture, mining industry, chemical industry,…
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Quicklime is widely used for pH adjustment in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment facilities. Its high calcium oxide content makes it an effective solution for:
-Neutralizing acidity in influent wastewater streams
-Raising pH to the optimal range for downstream biological treatment processes like activated sludge
-Facilitating coagulation and precipitation of phosphates, heavy metals, and other contaminants
-Reducing pathogens and harmful bacteria by increasing pH
-Meeting discharge limits for pH and total dissolved solids before water is released
Compared to alternatives like hydrated lime, quicklime provides better solubility and reactivity profiles desired for wastewater treatment. Plant operators benefit from its affordability and availability in bulk packaging suited for large flows.
Quicklime can also be used for sludge treatment to stabilize metals, decrease moisture content, and raise pH prior to disposal or land application. This helps optimize treatment plant performance and ensures regulatory compliance.
